Detroit Lions 7-round 2020 NFL mock draft: Time for a new era?
Round 5, 134th Overall: Anthony McFarland, RB, Maryland
Maryland running back Anthony McFarland recently declared for the 2020 NFL Draft. As a redshirt sophomore, it was far from a guarantee that McFarland would declare, but now that he has, he is an interesting back to keep an eye on in this range.
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As long as Kerryon Johnson can get back on the field and healthy, running back does not stand out as much of a need for the Detroit Lions. However, they would be wise to at least think about taking a shot on a back late in the 2020 NFL Draft. Johnson is a talented player, but he is unproven and durability is becoming a concern.
Here, they pick up McFarland, who could at least provide a nice change-of-pace option for the Lions. McFarland is an extremely quick and explosive runner who can make defenders miss in space and take it to the house from anywhere on the field. To reach his full upside at the next level, he must become more of an option in the passing game, but even as just a runner, there is a lot to like about McFarland’s game.
Round 6, 165th Overall: Tommy Kraemer, IOL, Notre Dame
Offensive guard is a major need for the Detroit Lions and they could easily consider addressing the position earlier than this. That being said, this is not the best interior offensive line class in recent memory and in this mock draft, a strong opportunity to improve the offensive line never presented itself. Instead, the Lions take a shot with Notre Dame offensive guard Tommy Kraemer.
2019 NFL All-Rookie Team. dark. Next
Kraemer is a big and powerful offensive lineman who can dominate opponents at the line of scrimmage. He has a wide frame and heavy hands that make him a difficult player for opposing defensive linemen to deal with. Kraemer does have some athletic limitations, but he is a smart and reliable player who has a chance to come in and compete for a starting job right away. In the right scheme, Kraemer could be a productive starter up front.